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Hermitage Artist Retreat urges Sarasota County to transfer campus ownership as hurricane recovery lags
Summary
Leaders and supporters of the Hermitage Artist Retreat asked Sarasota County commissioners to let the nonprofit assume ownership and management of the Hermitage campus at Blind Pass Beach, arguing county procurement and tenant status have delayed hurricane repairs and created ongoing liability and cost burdens.
The Hermitage Artist Retreat asked the Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners on Aug. 26 to begin negotiations to transfer ownership of the Hermitage campus so the nonprofit can lead restoration and long‑term stewardship.
"We see this proposal as a big win for all parties involved, most notably the taxpayers," Hermitage Artistic Director and CEO Andy Sandberg told the commission during the Open to the Public period, arguing that ownership would let the nonprofit expedite repairs using private funds and apply for grant programs that require ownership. Sandberg said the organization has offered a reverter clause to ensure public access and that the beach and campus would remain a county asset if the Hermitage ceased to exist.
Why it matters: Hermitage trustees and staff…
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